But Keown, who spent four years with the Merseysiders, has warned the defender - who has also been linked with a move to Manchester United - to reject the Blues' advances for the sake of his career.

“He should stay. He still needs to grow as a player and he needs to know he is number one choice," Keown told talkSPORT.

“I don’t think the [Chelsea] manager is completely stable at the moment, he is going through a really difficult period, and he is better staying at Everton for another season.

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DON'T GO: Keown has urged Stones to stay at Goodison Park

“He still needs to grow as a player and he needs to know he is number one choice”

Martin Keown

“They adore him, the Evertonians. They got me in the England team because they were so supportive. He needs that warmth for at least another year for his development."

Keown, 49, is a big fan of Stones and believes the former Barnsley star is destined for greatness.

However, the former England defender believes the Toffees ace needs to improve certain aspects of his game.

“He still has things to work on. I don’t think he is superb from crosses, I don’t think he marks brilliantly, I want to see him being more commanding from set-pieces, and all that comes from being the leader in a group for a team like Everton and then maybe he moves to Chelsea," he added.

“He is going to be an outstanding player but I don’t get this massive rush. Just stay where you are and develop and do the job for Everton. It is a huge club there."